Spring groundbreaking expected on physics project at MSU

EAST LANSING, Mich. (AP) - A massive physics research project at Michigan State University is expected to break ground this spring.

The Lansing State Journal reports that there is $55 million allocated for the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams in the federal budget. Plans call for more than $160 million in construction costs alone over the next four years.

The U.S. Department of Energy last year estimated the cost of FRIB at $730 million. The aim is for completion between 2020 and 2022.

The East Lansing school won a national competition to host the project in 2008, but budget concerns have threatened funding.

Preparation work already is taking place on campus. Backers have estimated that the project will create 5,000 construction jobs and 400 permanent jobs.